A Cat’s Life is a German made film finally making its way to screenings in other countries. It’s an adaptation of the novel “Rrou” by Maurice Genevoix and is nothing like Illumination’s The Secret Life of Pets (movie review). That’s because this story looks at what defines those relationships between animal and humankind. In this case, it’s about how Lou (as named by Clémence, played by Capucine Sainson-Fabresse) manages to win the hearts of viewers as she provides comfort to this young girl.
It’s sad to see that this kitty loses sight of his mother in the opening moments. Something happened, and he just left, to wander into the city streets and be found by a young girl. I hate to think there’s a sadder element as there’s no dialogue to explain what happened to his siblings and mother. What’s implied is very sad, and I hope the family survives.
Afterwards, there’s another story which works its way to this tale that was about this cat. It seems all is not well in the human world either; Clém’s parents are talking about how to best raise their child as they are in the midst of a divorce. This new pet is the only thing keeping the family together as they have one more adventure together and everyone goes their separate ways. Between watching the kitty grow up while out in the woods (where the majority of the tale takes place), I was worried if he’d wander away again, and leave the young girl alone. But cats can be a girl’s best friend, and helps give her the stability needed as more backstory gets revealed.
.
Ultimately, without Lou being around, and some beautiful moments from this kitty’s point of view, life would seem all the more threatening. This cat is willing to face any challenge head on, and that even includes some moments versus nature to show to Clém life will be okay. Even though he wants to conquer the new surroundings by mid-film, it seems the desire to be free in the mind of this tomcat too.Whether that’s also meant to symbolise what the young girl must become, too, it seems she has more trouble adjusting. Madeleine (Corinne Masiero) isn’t as scary when the two finally get to understand each other. And their relationship becomes just as important too. Although the film’s focus shifts to that of the human narrative, Lou’s is always sneaking around as we see him come of age faster than his owner’s.
The innocence instead of paradise lost is the focus of this film, and that made me appreciate the fact that everyone must grow up. It’s tough to accept change but at least for these two–human and pet–they’ll persevere. That also includes letting go. When Lou finds a mate, just what Clem must do answers the question if she’s ready to grow up too.
4 Stars out of 5
A Cat’s Life Movie Trailer
